Friday, April 01, 2016
Sunday, June 02, 2013
First June check in - Week 5
We have had a busy week. Many doctors appointments, Memorial Day, a mini-birthday party, plus my day job.
BUT
Weigh-In:
Starting weight: 249
May 27, 2013: 242
Week 5 weight change: -2 lbs
Total loss to date: 7 lbs
I lost 2 lbs even with the family party over Memorial Day weekend, the small birthday party for oldest son, never ending doctor appointments and too many sweets available for me to consume! I think I may have figured out what to do to keep on track in the face of traveling here and there and everywhere with the elders.
Goals and Plans:
BUT
Weigh-In:
Starting weight: 249
May 27, 2013: 242
Week 5 weight change: -2 lbs
Total loss to date: 7 lbs
I lost 2 lbs even with the family party over Memorial Day weekend, the small birthday party for oldest son, never ending doctor appointments and too many sweets available for me to consume! I think I may have figured out what to do to keep on track in the face of traveling here and there and everywhere with the elders.
Goals and Plans:
- The swimming pool is open and the water is finally balanced. I'll be researching some water exercises during the week and will begin using the pool to help me add exercise to my routine.
- Farmer's Markets are open in the County and should soon have a lovely variety of fresh fruits and vegetables to tempt my palate with their wonderful vitamins, minerals and weight reduction properties!
Monday, May 27, 2013
Happy Memorial Day! and late check in...
Weigh-In:
Starting weight: 249
May 27, 2013: 244
Week 4 weight change: 0 lbs
Total loss to date: 5 lbs
I neither lost nor gained weight this week. I'm calling it a win! This week has been a series of doctors appointments and surgeries for my mother. It was exhausting for both of us and I opted for eating out rather than cooking healthy meals at home frequently.
Plus, we had a family gathering on Saturday. I am sure the prep for the party helped me to maintain my current weight. There was a lot of bending, lifting, stair-stepping and scrubbing done over two days! The party food was delicious -- cheese and crackers, chips and dip, crock pot barbecue w/ homemade cole slaw, hot dogs, fruit and vegetable platters, deviled eggs, two kinds of macaroni salad, potato salad and desserts of cake, brownies and cookies. So, calories burned by the party prep were regained by the party itself - break even!
Back to plan on Tuesday. Gearing up today. I need to go to the store for salad fixings and fresh vegetables to augment the food already in my house to get totally back on track. However, normal, or what passes for that these days, begins again tomorrow. Normalcy will help me to stay on track. Goals will be set again next Saturday. The only goal this week is to get back into the groove of juicing and eating right.
This coming week features two days of doctor appointments. A real break from last week which had us running every day but Thursday. And a real plus: This week's appointments will be fairly short! Tuesday afternoon, Mom will have her stitches removed. She has facial reconstruction(?) surgery last Tuesday. Basal cell carcinoma was removed and the cancer had spread so far that Mom needed to see the plastic surgeon for outpatient surgery rather than having the dermatologist close the removal site.
Second trip is a regular doctor's appointment for all three of us, Me, Mom and Aunt. Hoping to lose another few pounds before weighing in at his office on Friday.
I leave you with pictures of Mom and her first great grandchild:
Starting weight: 249
May 27, 2013: 244
Week 4 weight change: 0 lbs
Total loss to date: 5 lbs
I neither lost nor gained weight this week. I'm calling it a win! This week has been a series of doctors appointments and surgeries for my mother. It was exhausting for both of us and I opted for eating out rather than cooking healthy meals at home frequently.
Plus, we had a family gathering on Saturday. I am sure the prep for the party helped me to maintain my current weight. There was a lot of bending, lifting, stair-stepping and scrubbing done over two days! The party food was delicious -- cheese and crackers, chips and dip, crock pot barbecue w/ homemade cole slaw, hot dogs, fruit and vegetable platters, deviled eggs, two kinds of macaroni salad, potato salad and desserts of cake, brownies and cookies. So, calories burned by the party prep were regained by the party itself - break even!
Back to plan on Tuesday. Gearing up today. I need to go to the store for salad fixings and fresh vegetables to augment the food already in my house to get totally back on track. However, normal, or what passes for that these days, begins again tomorrow. Normalcy will help me to stay on track. Goals will be set again next Saturday. The only goal this week is to get back into the groove of juicing and eating right.
This coming week features two days of doctor appointments. A real break from last week which had us running every day but Thursday. And a real plus: This week's appointments will be fairly short! Tuesday afternoon, Mom will have her stitches removed. She has facial reconstruction(?) surgery last Tuesday. Basal cell carcinoma was removed and the cancer had spread so far that Mom needed to see the plastic surgeon for outpatient surgery rather than having the dermatologist close the removal site.
Wear Sunscreen!!!!!!!!!
Second trip is a regular doctor's appointment for all three of us, Me, Mom and Aunt. Hoping to lose another few pounds before weighing in at his office on Friday.
I leave you with pictures of Mom and her first great grandchild:
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Weekly Report: May 18, 2013
Weigh-In:
Starting weight: 249
May 18, 2013: 244
Week 3 weight gain: 1 lbs
Total loss to date: 5 lbs
This was a not so good week. A lot of activity, exhaustion and stress meant poor choices in food and beverages - too much caffeine free diet coke, too little water; too many pre-made meals, too few healthy homemade meals. Bad for my eating plan. Bad for my budget.
This was the week to start walking and I did not.
Time to reboot the goals and restart the plan.
I'm not sure how to stem the tiredness. Sleep is elusive and early to bed is an impossibility. Activity this week will be mostly deep cleaning the house. I am hoping a thoroughly cleaned home will help reduce my stress level and increase my motivation.
There will be a bit more stress this week. Mom will undergo surgery early in the week to repair the gaping wound caused by the Moh's surgery. We spent most of the day Friday at the dermatologist's office having basal cell carcinoma removed from her face. The doctor thought the cancer was a small spot. It turned out to be more widespread than anticipated. The first eraser tip-sized hole turned into a quarter sized hole. Friday was a very bad day! I will know later today when surgery is scheduled. I think that will be a crockpot day! The wound has been bleeding quite a bit. This weekend will be spent making sure Mom keeps the bandage on, especially since she doesn't remember what happened, why it's there, even what it is sometimes.
I really need to pre-plan, pre-make and execute the menu for healthy eating with more consistency this week to counter-act the stress that is sure to come.
Goals:
Starting weight: 249
May 18, 2013: 244
Week 3 weight gain: 1 lbs
Total loss to date: 5 lbs
This was a not so good week. A lot of activity, exhaustion and stress meant poor choices in food and beverages - too much caffeine free diet coke, too little water; too many pre-made meals, too few healthy homemade meals. Bad for my eating plan. Bad for my budget.
This was the week to start walking and I did not.
Time to reboot the goals and restart the plan.
I'm not sure how to stem the tiredness. Sleep is elusive and early to bed is an impossibility. Activity this week will be mostly deep cleaning the house. I am hoping a thoroughly cleaned home will help reduce my stress level and increase my motivation.
There will be a bit more stress this week. Mom will undergo surgery early in the week to repair the gaping wound caused by the Moh's surgery. We spent most of the day Friday at the dermatologist's office having basal cell carcinoma removed from her face. The doctor thought the cancer was a small spot. It turned out to be more widespread than anticipated. The first eraser tip-sized hole turned into a quarter sized hole. Friday was a very bad day! I will know later today when surgery is scheduled. I think that will be a crockpot day! The wound has been bleeding quite a bit. This weekend will be spent making sure Mom keeps the bandage on, especially since she doesn't remember what happened, why it's there, even what it is sometimes.
I really need to pre-plan, pre-make and execute the menu for healthy eating with more consistency this week to counter-act the stress that is sure to come.
Goals:
- Pre-Assemble daily juice. Baggies with all the ingredients in one spot will help get the juicing done with minimal prep each day.
- Clean, peel, cut and bag the daily ingredients two days at a time
- Set up the juicer before bed
- Get up and JUICE!
- Plan the weekly menu with most ingredients on hand by mid-day Sunday. Prep as much as possible to make dinner easy to prepare when I walk in the door after work. This will go a long way toward preventing the "I'm too tired. Let's hit the drive through" phenomenon that took over this past week.
- Inventory Pantry/Fridge/freezer
- Create the menu
- Make a shopping list of missing ingredients
- Shop for the missing ingredients
- Prep two or more days at a time
- Institute the Post-It board to plan the deep clean. Post the board somewhere that others might see and step up to help out. If they don't, at least that will keep me on track to get it all done by the end of the week.
- Pick a spot for the post-it disply
- Divide the display room-by-room
- Write each task on its own post-it
- pick a post-it and DO IT!
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Weekly Report: May 11, 2013
Weigh-In:
Starting weight: 249
May 11, 2013: 243
Week 2 weight loss: 3 lbs
Total to date: 6 lbs
Plan Results:
Food: Green Juicing 5 of 7 days. Ate well for the week. Working on prepping the night before for work lunches and morning juices. I enjoyed the big salads I brought on two days - need to mix up the proteins. Last week it was Tuna. Need to prepare some chicken and eggs this weekend so I have alternatives to tuna, as that will get old really fast!
Exercise: Not much by way of exercise this week, other than the normal up and down the stairs multiple times a day and night to tend to Mom. This week I'm preparing the pool to be opened on Friday - so there will be plenty of exercise time. Not sure the walking regimen will start. If it does, it will be limited because I really need better shoes. My current athletic type shoes rub due to bunions and cause painful calluses near on my feet. Not an excuse - I just know that if it hurts my feet, I won't do it.
Goals progress:
Summer goals - get into the pool 4 times a week; go to Farmer's market for fresh produce at least every other Friday
Now to continue the journey and go make my green juice for today!
Slow and steady wins the race. I am determined to keep this going this time.
Starting weight: 249
May 11, 2013: 243
Week 2 weight loss: 3 lbs
Total to date: 6 lbs
Plan Results:
Food: Green Juicing 5 of 7 days. Ate well for the week. Working on prepping the night before for work lunches and morning juices. I enjoyed the big salads I brought on two days - need to mix up the proteins. Last week it was Tuna. Need to prepare some chicken and eggs this weekend so I have alternatives to tuna, as that will get old really fast!
Exercise: Not much by way of exercise this week, other than the normal up and down the stairs multiple times a day and night to tend to Mom. This week I'm preparing the pool to be opened on Friday - so there will be plenty of exercise time. Not sure the walking regimen will start. If it does, it will be limited because I really need better shoes. My current athletic type shoes rub due to bunions and cause painful calluses near on my feet. Not an excuse - I just know that if it hurts my feet, I won't do it.
Goals progress:
- I prepare a green juice 5 out of 7 mornings this week! Goal achieved.
- This is my weekly post. Goal achieved.
- Created my own recipe for fresh mushrooms to add to my spaghetti. I'm putting this in the new recipe category! Goal achieved.
- I am removing the goal of new vegetable/spice each week. I'll add this in as Farmer's Market season heats up in Calvert County.
- For Diet Coke v. water/vitamin water, I'm about half and half, which I declare a win!
Summer goals - get into the pool 4 times a week; go to Farmer's market for fresh produce at least every other Friday
Now to continue the journey and go make my green juice for today!
Slow and steady wins the race. I am determined to keep this going this time.
Sunday, May 05, 2013
Week 1 wrap-up
Progress will be slow and steady.
Week 1 results:
May 4, 2013 weigh in
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 246 lbs
Loss of 3 lbs
Plan Results:
Food: Green Juicing 4 of 7 days, No protein smoothies this week, though I did buy the supplies. I successfully limited wheat by reducing sandwiches and will continue in that vein. Reduced sugar by avoiding the sweet treats I keep in hand for the other residents of the house. Definitely ate more vegetables, but had a little too much ground beef. Need to up the fish and chicken meal plan!
Exercise: Walking is to start in Week 3, but this week I started more exercising by spending 3 hours in the yard. Activities included weed whacking, cutting down small trees and fallen branches, raking, picking up and disposing of debris. There was a lot of bending and lifting and perspiring, even though it was a coolish day. This week includes more of that, plus leaf scooping from the pool cover and pool to get ready for water delivery and pool opening. Also on the agenda will be some intensive house cleaning. Company is coming at the end of May and the house needs a bit of work.
Goals progress:
Goals throughout the journey:
1. Report weekly progress Check!
2. Find some great recipes to tease my palate - found a few, but haven't made them yet.
3. Try one new vegetable or spice each week - Not sure about this one, but definitely was hitting 'normal' this week. Oh, except for the mint in the vitamin water!
Progress was made on the weekly goal. As I said above, juicing 4 out of 7 days. I have reduced the CF Diet Coke a bit and have added up to 1/2 gallon of vitamin water a day. Current recipe: Lemon, cucumber and mint. I have ingredients on hand to try strawberry, blueberry and lemon.
I cut back on lunch sandwiches, opting for salads with protein (tuna or chicken) on 6 of 7 days. Turkey sandwich, with one slice of wheat bread on the 7th.
On my way and feeling successful! Craving a sweet cake and ignoring that craving! ;)
Week 1 results:
May 4, 2013 weigh in
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 246 lbs
Loss of 3 lbs
Plan Results:
Food: Green Juicing 4 of 7 days, No protein smoothies this week, though I did buy the supplies. I successfully limited wheat by reducing sandwiches and will continue in that vein. Reduced sugar by avoiding the sweet treats I keep in hand for the other residents of the house. Definitely ate more vegetables, but had a little too much ground beef. Need to up the fish and chicken meal plan!
Exercise: Walking is to start in Week 3, but this week I started more exercising by spending 3 hours in the yard. Activities included weed whacking, cutting down small trees and fallen branches, raking, picking up and disposing of debris. There was a lot of bending and lifting and perspiring, even though it was a coolish day. This week includes more of that, plus leaf scooping from the pool cover and pool to get ready for water delivery and pool opening. Also on the agenda will be some intensive house cleaning. Company is coming at the end of May and the house needs a bit of work.
Goals progress:
Goals throughout the journey:
1. Report weekly progress Check!
2. Find some great recipes to tease my palate - found a few, but haven't made them yet.
3. Try one new vegetable or spice each week - Not sure about this one, but definitely was hitting 'normal' this week. Oh, except for the mint in the vitamin water!
Weekly goals:
Weeks 1-2: Juice 5 of 7 days each week, gradually reduce Caffeine Free Diet Coke intake while adding water as a replacement until reaching 1 per day. Eliminate sandwiches to reduce carbs and sugars.
Progress was made on the weekly goal. As I said above, juicing 4 out of 7 days. I have reduced the CF Diet Coke a bit and have added up to 1/2 gallon of vitamin water a day. Current recipe: Lemon, cucumber and mint. I have ingredients on hand to try strawberry, blueberry and lemon.
I cut back on lunch sandwiches, opting for salads with protein (tuna or chicken) on 6 of 7 days. Turkey sandwich, with one slice of wheat bread on the 7th.
On my way and feeling successful! Craving a sweet cake and ignoring that craving! ;)
Saturday, April 27, 2013
The start of something big...
or someone smaller!
My sister and I recently returned from a lovely vacation in Cancun, Mexico -- a time to relax and recharge. We spent most of our days in leisure -- lounging poolside, warming in the sun, floating in pool, strolling along the white sands of the Caribbean.
One day we went snorkeling, which while a great deal of fun, could not be called leisurely! The tour was on a schedule: x amount of time for snorkeling, x amount of time for lunch, x amount of time in the tourist town on Isla de Mujeres. It all flew by much too fast as we were moved here and there through the schedule!
As is often the case on vacation tours go, a professional photographer was on hand to capture the moment for us and, of course, sell his finished product. We bought two of three photos, deciding we didn't want to pay $15 for a photo of the whales in the water - we looked HUGE! I wish now we would have purchased that photo. It would be the BEST before shot of me ever. If the TV camera adds 10 lbs to a person, a "from the boat while you are in the water" shot seems to add 25 lbs. The reality? It didn't ADD those 25 lbs. They are there, taunting me.
Well it's time to say a final Adios! to that extra baggage once and for all.
I'm approaching 54 years old and have carried this extra baggage for way, way too long. I've decided by 55, I want to be healthier!
Today I START!
Before photo - taken at the Holiday Inn Arenas, poolside, Cancun, Mexico. That's me on the right.
Starting Stats:
April 27, 2013
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 249 lbs
Plan:
Food: Green Juicing, protein smoothies, limit wheat and sugar, eat more lean proteins and vegetables
Exercise: Start with stretching and walking, utilize the pool when it opens for the season.
Goals:
Goals throughout the journey:
1. Report weekly progress
2. Find some great recipes to tease my palate
3. Try one new vegetable or spice each week
Weekly goals:
Weeks 1-2: Juice 5 of 7 days each week, gradually reduce Caffeine Free Diet Coke intake while adding water as a replacement until reaching 1 per day. Eliminate sandwiches to reduce carbs and sugars.
Week 3 - continue with the juicing/eating/drinking plan above, add walking around the neighborhood working up to two complete circuits of the wishbone streets.
(More weekly goals to come.)
ULTIMATE GOAL: 170 lbs
The plan is achieve the ultimate goal by my 55th Birthday on May 13, 2014. That means average weight loss of approximately 6 lbs per month. A totally achievable goal! I will be working with my doctor, getting regular check-ups, while I move to a healthier me!
I MUST REMEMBER:
It took almost 54 years to get where I am, I won't change over night.
Forgive myself my errors, learn from my missteps and keep moving forward, even if I wobble off the path!
Aaaaaaaand sheeeeeee's off!
First step taken - green juice for breakfast today, glass of water at my side...
My sister and I recently returned from a lovely vacation in Cancun, Mexico -- a time to relax and recharge. We spent most of our days in leisure -- lounging poolside, warming in the sun, floating in pool, strolling along the white sands of the Caribbean.
One day we went snorkeling, which while a great deal of fun, could not be called leisurely! The tour was on a schedule: x amount of time for snorkeling, x amount of time for lunch, x amount of time in the tourist town on Isla de Mujeres. It all flew by much too fast as we were moved here and there through the schedule!
As is often the case on vacation tours go, a professional photographer was on hand to capture the moment for us and, of course, sell his finished product. We bought two of three photos, deciding we didn't want to pay $15 for a photo of the whales in the water - we looked HUGE! I wish now we would have purchased that photo. It would be the BEST before shot of me ever. If the TV camera adds 10 lbs to a person, a "from the boat while you are in the water" shot seems to add 25 lbs. The reality? It didn't ADD those 25 lbs. They are there, taunting me.
Well it's time to say a final Adios! to that extra baggage once and for all.
I'm approaching 54 years old and have carried this extra baggage for way, way too long. I've decided by 55, I want to be healthier!
Today I START!
Before photo - taken at the Holiday Inn Arenas, poolside, Cancun, Mexico. That's me on the right.
Starting Stats:
April 27, 2013
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 249 lbs
Plan:
Food: Green Juicing, protein smoothies, limit wheat and sugar, eat more lean proteins and vegetables
Exercise: Start with stretching and walking, utilize the pool when it opens for the season.
Goals:
Goals throughout the journey:
1. Report weekly progress
2. Find some great recipes to tease my palate
3. Try one new vegetable or spice each week
Weekly goals:
Weeks 1-2: Juice 5 of 7 days each week, gradually reduce Caffeine Free Diet Coke intake while adding water as a replacement until reaching 1 per day. Eliminate sandwiches to reduce carbs and sugars.
Week 3 - continue with the juicing/eating/drinking plan above, add walking around the neighborhood working up to two complete circuits of the wishbone streets.
(More weekly goals to come.)
ULTIMATE GOAL: 170 lbs
The plan is achieve the ultimate goal by my 55th Birthday on May 13, 2014. That means average weight loss of approximately 6 lbs per month. A totally achievable goal! I will be working with my doctor, getting regular check-ups, while I move to a healthier me!
I MUST REMEMBER:
It took almost 54 years to get where I am, I won't change over night.
Forgive myself my errors, learn from my missteps and keep moving forward, even if I wobble off the path!
Aaaaaaaand sheeeeeee's off!
First step taken - green juice for breakfast today, glass of water at my side...
Saturday, January 05, 2013
Starting the New Year in Style
New Year 2013 crept in silently. We did watch the New Year's Rockin' Eve Dick Clark tribute and countdown and we almost got to the ball dropping, but Mom pooped out. I watched it online.
While I was watching ABC that night I realized I have been forever old. Odd at 53 to believe that, but really - rockin' eve? I'd rather have Guy Lombardo-like entertainment. Actually, when I was 20 I preferred the Guy Lombardo New Year's Eve. I often flipped over to whichever channel had the big band countdown so I could hear Auld Lang Syne big band style. I was singular in my preference. My companions on any given New Year's Eve preferred the Rockin' version.
Watching this year's show, I was semi-tallying the "I've seen them", "I've heard of them," and "Who the heck is that?" observations. I think there was an even split - but the overarching category? "I could do without seeing this act/singer/spokesperson ever again!" I believe that applied to every single act/person!
Old, I am you.
The fact that my yearly upper respiratory infection was beginning may have put an extra layer of "I don't give a darn, it's just another day" on the festivities. The infection took hold of my son first. We visited the Doctor on Jan 2. Diagnosis: a flu and infection. It took him three full days of antibiotics, rest and alternating ibuprofen and acetaminophen every four hours to even hit his fever. He seems to be on the mend, no elevated temperature by Friday evening.
Jan 3 about 1 PM, I could feel the aches building and a slight temperature and that punched in the face/chest feeling I get with upper respiratory infections and sinusitis. Temperature was hovering around 100F, when I finally got home from work and took it. Friday, I called the doctor's office when the opened, explained my symptoms (identical to my son's) to see if they could call in meds for me, or if I'd have to come in. Receptionist said doctor "would surely want to see you, but he is fully booked today". She asked for my call back number to let me know either way. Luckily, my doctor knows me, knows this is an annual event, and trusts that I know my body. He had them call in the z-Pack prescription.
Two doses of the Zpack and the alternating Ibuprofen/Acetaminophen every four hours seems to have knocked the temperature down. I still have some body, joint, muscle achiness, though not as bad as it was. Cough is now more productive, which is a good thing, though it adds to the body aches at my lower rib cage. I believe I am also on the mend.
I bought masks to wear around Mom and Aunt, so I wouldn't breathe my germs all over them. I have been washing my hands like crazy. Unfortunately, Mom got at least a head cold out of it... either from me or from getting out of the house last Friday and this Friday for her basal cell carcinoma surgery and follow-up. I was so hoping she wouldn't get sick. She is sneezing and has a runny nose and a slight cough. We'll keep our fingers crossed that it is just a head cold.
I promise not to be a whiny blogger all the time, but felt the urge to share my new year fun.
See you next time.
While I was watching ABC that night I realized I have been forever old. Odd at 53 to believe that, but really - rockin' eve? I'd rather have Guy Lombardo-like entertainment. Actually, when I was 20 I preferred the Guy Lombardo New Year's Eve. I often flipped over to whichever channel had the big band countdown so I could hear Auld Lang Syne big band style. I was singular in my preference. My companions on any given New Year's Eve preferred the Rockin' version.
Watching this year's show, I was semi-tallying the "I've seen them", "I've heard of them," and "Who the heck is that?" observations. I think there was an even split - but the overarching category? "I could do without seeing this act/singer/spokesperson ever again!" I believe that applied to every single act/person!
Old, I am you.
The fact that my yearly upper respiratory infection was beginning may have put an extra layer of "I don't give a darn, it's just another day" on the festivities. The infection took hold of my son first. We visited the Doctor on Jan 2. Diagnosis: a flu and infection. It took him three full days of antibiotics, rest and alternating ibuprofen and acetaminophen every four hours to even hit his fever. He seems to be on the mend, no elevated temperature by Friday evening.
Jan 3 about 1 PM, I could feel the aches building and a slight temperature and that punched in the face/chest feeling I get with upper respiratory infections and sinusitis. Temperature was hovering around 100F, when I finally got home from work and took it. Friday, I called the doctor's office when the opened, explained my symptoms (identical to my son's) to see if they could call in meds for me, or if I'd have to come in. Receptionist said doctor "would surely want to see you, but he is fully booked today". She asked for my call back number to let me know either way. Luckily, my doctor knows me, knows this is an annual event, and trusts that I know my body. He had them call in the z-Pack prescription.
Two doses of the Zpack and the alternating Ibuprofen/Acetaminophen every four hours seems to have knocked the temperature down. I still have some body, joint, muscle achiness, though not as bad as it was. Cough is now more productive, which is a good thing, though it adds to the body aches at my lower rib cage. I believe I am also on the mend.
I bought masks to wear around Mom and Aunt, so I wouldn't breathe my germs all over them. I have been washing my hands like crazy. Unfortunately, Mom got at least a head cold out of it... either from me or from getting out of the house last Friday and this Friday for her basal cell carcinoma surgery and follow-up. I was so hoping she wouldn't get sick. She is sneezing and has a runny nose and a slight cough. We'll keep our fingers crossed that it is just a head cold.
I promise not to be a whiny blogger all the time, but felt the urge to share my new year fun.
See you next time.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Out with the Old, In with the New
2012 is almost over. The past few years have been filled with many challenges and my blog has long been neglected. I'd like to rectify that for 2013.
I am praying for a happy, healthy, prosperous new year for everyone I know and love - especially my family and friends.
May 2013 be the year
I make no resolutions. All my I resolves tend to dissolve in a day or two. However, I do have plans - long range plans. Each plan starts with one small step and continues with more small steps, until the plan is fulfilled. I have decided, regardless of how small the step, as long as I move forward, and forgive myself for moving backward, I will make progress and my goal will be reached.
Long Range Plans:
I have started on one and four. I will continue stepping toward those goals and incorporate number 3 beginning on January 5th. The second goal cannot begin until the first is achieved, but I will keep my eye on that prize!
I have heard that a goal is not a goal until it is written down. A goal cannot be achieved without a plan - a written plan. A plan cannot be implemented without written steps. And so I continue....
Debt Freedom: I have a budget in place (written step); I have a debt reduction list with payment amounts and schedules (written steps); I am working on trimming the budget to free up more cash to add to the debt reduction step.
Less Clutter: seven large bags have been taken to the dump in the last three weeks. Two more are ready to go. I am starting upstairs and working my way down. Right corner of the bedroom is half done. I will complete that and move to the left corner. I have a book with a list of each room in the house and what needs to be done - my written plan with steps included.
Weight Loss: I am planning menus this week to begin on Saturday (written plan with daily steps). I will work through the stores on hand this week, eating as well as I can with what I have, and begin with the new menus on Saturday, January 5th. The first two small steps begin tomorrow.
There will be challenges to my plans. Emergencies will occur. Setbacks are inevitable. I will pray for the strength, guidance and good fortune to weather the emergencies without getting off track.
I am praying for a happy, healthy, prosperous new year for everyone I know and love - especially my family and friends.
May 2013 be the year
- for dreams fulfilled and goals achieved;
- for dreaming new dreams and planning new goals;
- for keeping in touch;
- for living each day to the fullest and seizing opportunities;
- for opening our eyes and hearts to new experiences;
- for charity;
- for love;
- for happiness
I make no resolutions. All my I resolves tend to dissolve in a day or two. However, I do have plans - long range plans. Each plan starts with one small step and continues with more small steps, until the plan is fulfilled. I have decided, regardless of how small the step, as long as I move forward, and forgive myself for moving backward, I will make progress and my goal will be reached.
Long Range Plans:
- Debt Freedom (except the house) -- goal date: Summer 2014.
- Hefty savings -- goal date: December 2014, my planned retirement date after 32+ years of federal service.
- Weight loss -- Goal date: Summer 2014
- Less Cluttered home -- goal date: December 2013
I have started on one and four. I will continue stepping toward those goals and incorporate number 3 beginning on January 5th. The second goal cannot begin until the first is achieved, but I will keep my eye on that prize!
I have heard that a goal is not a goal until it is written down. A goal cannot be achieved without a plan - a written plan. A plan cannot be implemented without written steps. And so I continue....
Debt Freedom: I have a budget in place (written step); I have a debt reduction list with payment amounts and schedules (written steps); I am working on trimming the budget to free up more cash to add to the debt reduction step.
Less Clutter: seven large bags have been taken to the dump in the last three weeks. Two more are ready to go. I am starting upstairs and working my way down. Right corner of the bedroom is half done. I will complete that and move to the left corner. I have a book with a list of each room in the house and what needs to be done - my written plan with steps included.
Weight Loss: I am planning menus this week to begin on Saturday (written plan with daily steps). I will work through the stores on hand this week, eating as well as I can with what I have, and begin with the new menus on Saturday, January 5th. The first two small steps begin tomorrow.
- I will begin juicing for a minimum of five days per week with the aim at daily juicing.
- Reduce soda intake and replace with water.
There will be challenges to my plans. Emergencies will occur. Setbacks are inevitable. I will pray for the strength, guidance and good fortune to weather the emergencies without getting off track.
Saturday, March 03, 2012
Vision Board
Vision Board
Originally uploaded by radarkaty.
TTMMO is having a Biggest Loser Debt Edition for March and April. One of the 'tasks' is to create a vision board of what I see my debt-free future to be. This is mine.
Vision Board
Vision Board
Originally uploaded by radarkaty.
TTMMO is having a Biggest Loser Debt Edition for March and April. One of the 'tasks' is to create a vision board of what I see my debt-free future to be. This is mine.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Ob-la-di, ob-la-da, life goes on...
brah!... Lala how the life goes on... (with special thanks to the Beatles!)
And on it does go. I will soon be introducing a new blog featuring my Mom and our journey together through her ups and downs and the changing world brought on by her breast cancer and Alzheimer's Disease. I hope to chronicle the journey so others can find the joy of living, loving and care giving as well as the sadness and trials presented by these diseases. I hope to provide informative links, stories that might help, encourage you or at least make you smile. Watch for an announcement and a link that will appear in the sidebar.
Now, what life has been bringing me...
I sent off the elephants I posted in my last missive. They were well received. I am working on a few more to send somewhere else and on one for my young cousin. She helped knit the lightest color one in the pictures and really liked it. She wanted to keep it, but I told her it was destined for a child with no toys. Promised her one of her own and continuing knitting lessons if she (and her Mom!) wants them.
Stocked up on food and goodies for a family visit. My aunt is up visiting her big sister, Mom, for a week. We are eating well! Aunt heads back to sunny FL on Saturday and we'll be back to just me, Mom and cousin for a while, until mid-July, when a male is thrown back in the mix (younger son is away until mid-July and he'll be back). Cousin noted the other day - "Isn't it funny? You used to live with three boys (note: my husband and two sons) and now you are surrounded by three girls (mom, her and her mom!)" God does have a sense of humor and a great sense of timing. I can handle the girls now they are grown. I'm not sure I could have done that 20 years ago from birth to adulthood!
I was going to add something else here... but my mind has wandered.
Hope to see you around the new blog when it launches... and, of course, here when I remember to write!
And on it does go. I will soon be introducing a new blog featuring my Mom and our journey together through her ups and downs and the changing world brought on by her breast cancer and Alzheimer's Disease. I hope to chronicle the journey so others can find the joy of living, loving and care giving as well as the sadness and trials presented by these diseases. I hope to provide informative links, stories that might help, encourage you or at least make you smile. Watch for an announcement and a link that will appear in the sidebar.
Now, what life has been bringing me...
I sent off the elephants I posted in my last missive. They were well received. I am working on a few more to send somewhere else and on one for my young cousin. She helped knit the lightest color one in the pictures and really liked it. She wanted to keep it, but I told her it was destined for a child with no toys. Promised her one of her own and continuing knitting lessons if she (and her Mom!) wants them.
Stocked up on food and goodies for a family visit. My aunt is up visiting her big sister, Mom, for a week. We are eating well! Aunt heads back to sunny FL on Saturday and we'll be back to just me, Mom and cousin for a while, until mid-July, when a male is thrown back in the mix (younger son is away until mid-July and he'll be back). Cousin noted the other day - "Isn't it funny? You used to live with three boys (note: my husband and two sons) and now you are surrounded by three girls (mom, her and her mom!)" God does have a sense of humor and a great sense of timing. I can handle the girls now they are grown. I'm not sure I could have done that 20 years ago from birth to adulthood!
I was going to add something else here... but my mind has wandered.
Hope to see you around the new blog when it launches... and, of course, here when I remember to write!
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Reviving, Reviewing, Reporting
Hello, my friends and readers - if you are still stopping by to see if have written anything new. I've been busy with life and haven't taken the time to update. Perhaps I lacked the energy, or didn't have anything fun to report, and definitely don't want to whine at you. I decided to share a bit of what is going on and try to get back into keeping this blog going.
Since my last post, we've seen Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, St. Patrick's Day, Easter, Memorial Day... many birthdays and family gatherings... lots of knitting and donating and worrying and caretaking and house cleaning and - you know, life! :)
I'll just start where I am, if that's okay with you.
My friend, BeLinda, known on Ravelry as KnittyBe, helped her daughter help Joplin, MO by starting a Facebook community page called Elephants Remember Joplin (hey, stop on by and LIKE the page! It helps!). Her 8 yo daughter has been knitting elephants to bring to the children of Joplin since Memorial Day. It has been a Knit-A-Thon of elephants and she made 12 during the stated dates (Memorial Day to June 17th), helped raise over $3000 for the Greater Ozarks Chapter of the American Red Cross, is going to Joplin to personally deliver her herd. She continues to knit on the lovely elephants and hopes to take at least 14.
To help with this endeavor, I also knit 7 elephants - 4 before Memorial Day (these will be carried to Joplin with the ERJ herd since I already mailed them to BeLinda!) and 3 more since, which I am sending to Little Hands Big Helpers - Empowering Kids to Make a Difference to be distributed along with bears, blankets and books they are gathering. My three will meet up with the ERJ herd and, hopefully, bring some joy to the children of a devastated town.
My little herd:
I watch the videos and YouTube and read the stories on various pages on Facebook and am humbled by the spirit of the people and the breadth of the volunteers. I want to give and give and go and help. Unfortunately, I am not in a position - financially or time-wise - to get there and do anything. So, I knit a few things, send a few blankets, and say a lot of prayers.
I am continuing the great clean-up in my house - I have a two year plan. First step, a great big truck (thank you, Got Junk people - 1-800-Got-Junk) came and removed all the broken, falling apart things that have been accumulating (futon frames, old picnic table, broken computers and monitors, a recliner and other huge things that wouldn't fit in my trunk!).
With the help of my cousin, cleared out my son's old room, painted, cleaned the carpets and moved her in! This will help on many levels. Provides a room for her, a place to call home, and throws a little $$ into the family budget. In addition, she'll be a great help with my Mom - keeping her company, having lunch with her when cousin is working from home... A good arrangement AND the bonus of a cleaned up room and bathroom!
There has been knitting as well. Besides the elephants, I made a shawl, a couple of hats, and several wash cloths. I also have a couple of different sock patterns in progress..
Unfortunately, this is smaller than I would like - so I'll be unbinding it and adding to it... but it is finished per the pattern!
I have another elephant on the needles, too. I just can't stop. I also will be making several hats to send to Japan. One is done, one is almost done and I plant to make at least three more. I am also working on a super secret project that needs to be done before the end of July.
My financial life is getting in order. Like the great clean-up plan, this is a multi-year plan. I am budgeting, reducing my spending, and paying off debt. I have long way to go. By following the Dave Ramsey plan, it is going!
All right, gonna go for the night. I had more to say, but I will save that for another day. It's too late to do justice to my deep thoughts... a light-hearted entry is a better re-introduction to the blog!
Since my last post, we've seen Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, St. Patrick's Day, Easter, Memorial Day... many birthdays and family gatherings... lots of knitting and donating and worrying and caretaking and house cleaning and - you know, life! :)
I'll just start where I am, if that's okay with you.
My friend, BeLinda, known on Ravelry as KnittyBe, helped her daughter help Joplin, MO by starting a Facebook community page called Elephants Remember Joplin (hey, stop on by and LIKE the page! It helps!). Her 8 yo daughter has been knitting elephants to bring to the children of Joplin since Memorial Day. It has been a Knit-A-Thon of elephants and she made 12 during the stated dates (Memorial Day to June 17th), helped raise over $3000 for the Greater Ozarks Chapter of the American Red Cross, is going to Joplin to personally deliver her herd. She continues to knit on the lovely elephants and hopes to take at least 14.
To help with this endeavor, I also knit 7 elephants - 4 before Memorial Day (these will be carried to Joplin with the ERJ herd since I already mailed them to BeLinda!) and 3 more since, which I am sending to Little Hands Big Helpers - Empowering Kids to Make a Difference to be distributed along with bears, blankets and books they are gathering. My three will meet up with the ERJ herd and, hopefully, bring some joy to the children of a devastated town.
My little herd:
I watch the videos and YouTube and read the stories on various pages on Facebook and am humbled by the spirit of the people and the breadth of the volunteers. I want to give and give and go and help. Unfortunately, I am not in a position - financially or time-wise - to get there and do anything. So, I knit a few things, send a few blankets, and say a lot of prayers.
I am continuing the great clean-up in my house - I have a two year plan. First step, a great big truck (thank you, Got Junk people - 1-800-Got-Junk) came and removed all the broken, falling apart things that have been accumulating (futon frames, old picnic table, broken computers and monitors, a recliner and other huge things that wouldn't fit in my trunk!).
With the help of my cousin, cleared out my son's old room, painted, cleaned the carpets and moved her in! This will help on many levels. Provides a room for her, a place to call home, and throws a little $$ into the family budget. In addition, she'll be a great help with my Mom - keeping her company, having lunch with her when cousin is working from home... A good arrangement AND the bonus of a cleaned up room and bathroom!
There has been knitting as well. Besides the elephants, I made a shawl, a couple of hats, and several wash cloths. I also have a couple of different sock patterns in progress..
Unfortunately, this is smaller than I would like - so I'll be unbinding it and adding to it... but it is finished per the pattern!
I have another elephant on the needles, too. I just can't stop. I also will be making several hats to send to Japan. One is done, one is almost done and I plant to make at least three more. I am also working on a super secret project that needs to be done before the end of July.
My financial life is getting in order. Like the great clean-up plan, this is a multi-year plan. I am budgeting, reducing my spending, and paying off debt. I have long way to go. By following the Dave Ramsey plan, it is going!
All right, gonna go for the night. I had more to say, but I will save that for another day. It's too late to do justice to my deep thoughts... a light-hearted entry is a better re-introduction to the blog!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Sunday: Synopsis of a Week
With the best of intentions I refreshed and re-started the blog here. Then... things went you know where in a special basket around my world. Not as bad as it could be - but definitely wearing away at my creative and desire to update my adventures. I'm not going to apologize. I'll just say, I'll be here when I'm here!
I offer you a synopsis of my previous week to 12 days:
Now that you're all caught up. What? Oh, you want some explanations.
Mom has been having in-home physical therapy to help her regain some stamina and energy and such. The visiting nurses discovered a pressure sore. I've been learning to care for that and taking Mom to appointments for others to keep an eye out. In the nursing arena, I've also learned how to give B12 shots.
When I was a young girl, first or second grade, I wanted to be a nurse. I outgrew that desire after many visits to hospitals, doctors, etc. Now, I'm a nurse - sort of!
I started coughing with a painful face and such a little over a week ago. Last Sunday, the voice had hit the Bass level and I turned into Mr. C ~~ and not the dad from Happy Days! My seasonal allergies often have me singing Bass and I'm generally mistaken for a man on the phone. Turns out this was not just (or, possibly, even) seasonal allergies, but bronchitis and sinusitis. On top of that, I was diagnosed with High Blood Pressure. So, I've been taking new meds and getting used to this new regime for the past week.
My face feels a bet better. I'm still coughing and don't think the bronchi are completely clear. We will see what progress on Wednesday morning when I go in for blood work and an ekg. Time to take care of me - according to me and my new doctor!
Since I was feeling poorly and taking care of me and Mom, I didn't drain the pool cover immediately after the last two rain storms. Nobody was home to use the pool anyway.
I decided on Thursday that I needed to clear the water off the cover. I placed the pump on the cover and let it go for a couple of hours. I went out to adjust the pump's location and discovered hundreds and hundreds, nay, THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS of tadpoles on my pool cover!! Every rivulet of water not yet drained had this and many more tadpoles of various sizes swimming round and round.
I did not exaggerate on the thousands... my pool cover is 20'x40'... this little 6"x10" section has >25 tadpoles of various sizes.
After a major freak out - posting the picture and a little video on Facebook and Ravelry... I got my leaf basket/scoop net and scooped leaves and tadpoles and other stuff off the cover and into the brush behind the pool. Today - we are tadpole free.
Jungle taming came by hiring someone to tame the yard, the garden and the gutters. Peaceful, beautiful yard today. And I am grinning...
and still coughing....
and still knitting....
and still reading....
and still playing on the computer.
I offer you a synopsis of my previous week to 12 days:
 |
| http://www.wordle.net/show/wrdl/2346840/August |
Now that you're all caught up. What? Oh, you want some explanations.
Mom has been having in-home physical therapy to help her regain some stamina and energy and such. The visiting nurses discovered a pressure sore. I've been learning to care for that and taking Mom to appointments for others to keep an eye out. In the nursing arena, I've also learned how to give B12 shots.
When I was a young girl, first or second grade, I wanted to be a nurse. I outgrew that desire after many visits to hospitals, doctors, etc. Now, I'm a nurse - sort of!
I started coughing with a painful face and such a little over a week ago. Last Sunday, the voice had hit the Bass level and I turned into Mr. C ~~ and not the dad from Happy Days! My seasonal allergies often have me singing Bass and I'm generally mistaken for a man on the phone. Turns out this was not just (or, possibly, even) seasonal allergies, but bronchitis and sinusitis. On top of that, I was diagnosed with High Blood Pressure. So, I've been taking new meds and getting used to this new regime for the past week.
My face feels a bet better. I'm still coughing and don't think the bronchi are completely clear. We will see what progress on Wednesday morning when I go in for blood work and an ekg. Time to take care of me - according to me and my new doctor!
Since I was feeling poorly and taking care of me and Mom, I didn't drain the pool cover immediately after the last two rain storms. Nobody was home to use the pool anyway.
I decided on Thursday that I needed to clear the water off the cover. I placed the pump on the cover and let it go for a couple of hours. I went out to adjust the pump's location and discovered hundreds and hundreds, nay, THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS of tadpoles on my pool cover!! Every rivulet of water not yet drained had this and many more tadpoles of various sizes swimming round and round.
I did not exaggerate on the thousands... my pool cover is 20'x40'... this little 6"x10" section has >25 tadpoles of various sizes.
After a major freak out - posting the picture and a little video on Facebook and Ravelry... I got my leaf basket/scoop net and scooped leaves and tadpoles and other stuff off the cover and into the brush behind the pool. Today - we are tadpole free.
Jungle taming came by hiring someone to tame the yard, the garden and the gutters. Peaceful, beautiful yard today. And I am grinning...
and still coughing....
and still knitting....
and still reading....
and still playing on the computer.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
New paint on the wall and sheeeeeee's baaaa-aaack!
I have been away from the blog for the summer. I've been busy and life has been hectic and I've not had much to say. Well, that's probably not strictly true, but I didn't really have time to say it!
Medical appointments for Mom, work and such have kept me hopping. It's been so darn hot all summer I haven't done a lot of 'memorable' things.
But I'm back, for now, and hopefully I'll be a more frequent updater than in recent days.
Here are a few things I've been doing:
Knitting:
My first Baby Surprise Jacket! Still needs buttons and ends woven, as well as the white buttons.
I also made a hat and a blanket:
These are for Sean's Baby Boy - due at the end of August. They will be finished and in the mail on Wednesday!!!!
Another cousin, Ami, is due with her first child in October. Stealth knitting is going on for her baby girl. I'd show you, but my family reads and I'd like her to be surprised! :)
Other endeavors, mostly failed or barely executed, for the summer:
Glad to be back. Looking forward to recording All My Great Adventures once again!
Medical appointments for Mom, work and such have kept me hopping. It's been so darn hot all summer I haven't done a lot of 'memorable' things.
But I'm back, for now, and hopefully I'll be a more frequent updater than in recent days.
Here are a few things I've been doing:
Knitting:
My first Baby Surprise Jacket! Still needs buttons and ends woven, as well as the white buttons.
I also made a hat and a blanket:
 |
| Baby's Hat |
 | |
| Baby's Blanket |
These are for Sean's Baby Boy - due at the end of August. They will be finished and in the mail on Wednesday!!!!
Another cousin, Ami, is due with her first child in October. Stealth knitting is going on for her baby girl. I'd show you, but my family reads and I'd like her to be surprised! :)
Other endeavors, mostly failed or barely executed, for the summer:
- planting veggies - all died due to extreme heat and a late start
- clearing the clutter - plans were made, plans were not executed, plans have been remade, hope to execute as the weather cools
- debt reduction - plans have been made, budgets have been made and (mostly) followed. Long way to go, but I'm determined
- Selling stuff - plans have been made, listing will soon begin, though I have sold a few things on Half.com while I'm learning the ropes of other venues. I will be selling the stuff I de-clutter; selling stuff I knit, crochet, paint, bead, whatever; selling books and DVDs and such. I'm learning the ins and outs of eBay, Craigslist, and Etsy!
Glad to be back. Looking forward to recording All My Great Adventures once again!
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Summer's coming!
Today, 6000 gallons of water will be delivered to top off my in-ground pool!
Water delivery is scheduled between 8 and noon. I got up waaaaay too early for a Saturday and put the pump on because we had thunderstorms roll through last evening. It's now about 9:30 AM and the water has not yet arrives. I realize I could have slept a while longer. Of course, if I had slept in, the water would have arrived at 8 AM on the nose!
I dreaded rolling back the cover. The winter weather was the worst it has been in many years. Certainly the worst it has been since I've owned this pool. Surprise, surprise -- this was the BEST winter for the pool. Go figure! Very little debris inched its way into the water through the very narrow gap between the pool cover and the wall on the shallow end. I am usually scooping many, many leaves. Hardly any this year. This is a good thing, since the best scooper basket was broken by some helper over the winter.
Looks like we'll be ready for the pool company to come and get it set for the season on Tuesday!
In knitting news, I finished my Baktus, except for the blocking.
I need to figure out what to do next. With five or more babies expected in my extended family and friends network, you'd think I could pick some baby thing or another. Yet, I have not.
Instead, I am planning a Pampered Chef(r) Help Whip Cancer(r) fundraiser show for next Saturday. The Pampered Chef(r) has been supporting the American Cancer Society and their Breast Cancer Education program for over 10 years, contributing $7.9 million dollars since 2000. Last year, the Help Whip Cancer(r) campaign raised $875,000. The HWC fundraisers are regular Pampered Chef shows, with a pink twist. During the month of May, the guest specials are special pink and white products. The Pampered Chef(r) contributes $1.00 for every pink product sold and up to 25% of the total products sold to the American Cancer Society.
If you'd be interested in purchasing something to help raise funds for Breast Cancer Education, or you'd just like to see what The Pampered Chef has to offer, drop me a line and I'll send you the link.
Water delivery is scheduled between 8 and noon. I got up waaaaay too early for a Saturday and put the pump on because we had thunderstorms roll through last evening. It's now about 9:30 AM and the water has not yet arrives. I realize I could have slept a while longer. Of course, if I had slept in, the water would have arrived at 8 AM on the nose!
I dreaded rolling back the cover. The winter weather was the worst it has been in many years. Certainly the worst it has been since I've owned this pool. Surprise, surprise -- this was the BEST winter for the pool. Go figure! Very little debris inched its way into the water through the very narrow gap between the pool cover and the wall on the shallow end. I am usually scooping many, many leaves. Hardly any this year. This is a good thing, since the best scooper basket was broken by some helper over the winter.
Looks like we'll be ready for the pool company to come and get it set for the season on Tuesday!
In knitting news, I finished my Baktus, except for the blocking.
I need to figure out what to do next. With five or more babies expected in my extended family and friends network, you'd think I could pick some baby thing or another. Yet, I have not.
Instead, I am planning a Pampered Chef(r) Help Whip Cancer(r) fundraiser show for next Saturday. The Pampered Chef(r) has been supporting the American Cancer Society and their Breast Cancer Education program for over 10 years, contributing $7.9 million dollars since 2000. Last year, the Help Whip Cancer(r) campaign raised $875,000. The HWC fundraisers are regular Pampered Chef shows, with a pink twist. During the month of May, the guest specials are special pink and white products. The Pampered Chef(r) contributes $1.00 for every pink product sold and up to 25% of the total products sold to the American Cancer Society.
If you'd be interested in purchasing something to help raise funds for Breast Cancer Education, or you'd just like to see what The Pampered Chef has to offer, drop me a line and I'll send you the link.
Sunday, May 02, 2010
Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival
Mom was doing much better, so I took myself to the Festival today. Goal: Funnel Cake!
Scored the Funnel Cake and this lovely skein of Tess Designer Yarns Super Sock & Baby yarn. I took the picture at two angles to show off all the colors.
There are three babies being born in my extended family. One lucky baby will get a gift made from this fabulous yarn.
I traveled the Festival with Alex and Beth from The Yarn Garden. Alex owns The Yarn Garden and she placed an order for the yarn I'd like for a sweater I loved at Autumn House Farm. The yarn is called Blarney Stone and the pattern is Julie. Neither the yarn nor the pattern seem to be available on the website, but we just fell in love with it. Locals should look for both at The Yarn Garden in the near(ish) future! :)
While I only bought one skein of yarn, I have an order for a sweater's worth with my local yarn shop!
After mowing the yard yesterday and walking around the Festival today - I'm tired and a little sun-kissed... It was a great weekend!
Scored the Funnel Cake and this lovely skein of Tess Designer Yarns Super Sock & Baby yarn. I took the picture at two angles to show off all the colors.
There are three babies being born in my extended family. One lucky baby will get a gift made from this fabulous yarn.
I traveled the Festival with Alex and Beth from The Yarn Garden. Alex owns The Yarn Garden and she placed an order for the yarn I'd like for a sweater I loved at Autumn House Farm. The yarn is called Blarney Stone and the pattern is Julie. Neither the yarn nor the pattern seem to be available on the website, but we just fell in love with it. Locals should look for both at The Yarn Garden in the near(ish) future! :)
While I only bought one skein of yarn, I have an order for a sweater's worth with my local yarn shop!
After mowing the yard yesterday and walking around the Festival today - I'm tired and a little sun-kissed... It was a great weekend!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
This and that on a Sunday
Last week, Mom and I took her first non-medical trip in a long time. We headed down county, across the too-tall bridge to St. Mary's County for a little retail therapy.
Mom had an Estee Lauder offer to redeem and some creams she wanted to buy. Younger son needed some new khakis and shirts and a tie for his job. Belk was having a sale and we had an additional 20% off coupon. So - off to California we went! California, MD, that is! :)
The pants I bought were too big. They were nice pants too. I was sad. :( Anyway, the trip was repeated today. This time I went solo.
I got a refund for the pants at Belk. I looked around and found some new pants in the right size. Of course, the sale was over and the coupon was long gone. I wasn't paying full price. So, I left.
Luckily, JC Penney is in the same shopping center and I got a $10 off coupon in the mail yesterday! Over to JCP I went. They had pants in the correct waist size, but either too long (34) or too short (32). B wanted 33x33 close to impossible to find. I examined the 33x32s and the hem was long enough to lengthen, so I picked up a pair of those, plus a GIFT receipt for him to exchange them next time!!
Score. Khakis, 33x32, on sale for $29.99, less the $10 coupon and bonus 'free tax day at JCP' - new pants were $2 less than the ones I returned! :)
SUPER BONUS! He tried them on as soon as I got home and ---- They FIT!
On the way back from the Great Pants Exchange, I stopped at Chesapeake's Bounty, where I discovered you can pick your own strawberries! That's not why I stopped, but I was happy to see that they do that! The only other place I knew closed a couple of years ago.
Today, I stopped to pick up some new annuals and perennials for the garden.
Older son and two of his friends cleared the weeds last week and it looked so bare.
It will soon be bursting with color!
Planted: Marigolds - big ones (yellow and sweet cream) and smaller one in disco (a multi-orange); begonias - one pink, one red; Astra Blue Balloon flowers; and Astra Osteospermum in yellow and sunset purple.
These lovely plants will join the irises and daisies and cone flowers and whatever else pops up from last year! :)
And - last but not least - I'm knitting myself a gift. I'm participating in a CPaAG C/KAL. Everyone is doing some version of the Baktus (link to Ravelry search results for Baktus) I am doing the Lacy Baktus (my project page on Ravelry; you can click that link and see the project page, even if you don't belong to Ravelry!)
Last, but not least - we are seeing the end of the treatment tunnel for Mom's cancer. Last infusion should be June 7th. There have been and will be more doctors for other issues as the cancer treatments wind down. Important for overall health. She had her six month mammogram and it was all clear. She'll have another next Fall. If that one is clear, she'll be back on the yearly mammo plan
She fell twice in March and fractured her L1 vertebrae. We are looking into Vertebroplasty. The compression fracture is significant (50-60% and a backward tilt). Doctor says she's a candidate and it is more indicated than not for this fracture at this level and severity. We decide tomorrow. If it's a go, we'll be heading to Annapolis on Friday -- getting out of the house before 5:30 AM for a 7:30 or 8:00 AM out-patient surgery.
I think that's enough for now! :) Hope to see you sooner rather than later next time!
Mom had an Estee Lauder offer to redeem and some creams she wanted to buy. Younger son needed some new khakis and shirts and a tie for his job. Belk was having a sale and we had an additional 20% off coupon. So - off to California we went! California, MD, that is! :)
The pants I bought were too big. They were nice pants too. I was sad. :( Anyway, the trip was repeated today. This time I went solo.
I got a refund for the pants at Belk. I looked around and found some new pants in the right size. Of course, the sale was over and the coupon was long gone. I wasn't paying full price. So, I left.
Luckily, JC Penney is in the same shopping center and I got a $10 off coupon in the mail yesterday! Over to JCP I went. They had pants in the correct waist size, but either too long (34) or too short (32). B wanted 33x33 close to impossible to find. I examined the 33x32s and the hem was long enough to lengthen, so I picked up a pair of those, plus a GIFT receipt for him to exchange them next time!!
Score. Khakis, 33x32, on sale for $29.99, less the $10 coupon and bonus 'free tax day at JCP' - new pants were $2 less than the ones I returned! :)
SUPER BONUS! He tried them on as soon as I got home and ---- They FIT!
On the way back from the Great Pants Exchange, I stopped at Chesapeake's Bounty, where I discovered you can pick your own strawberries! That's not why I stopped, but I was happy to see that they do that! The only other place I knew closed a couple of years ago.
Today, I stopped to pick up some new annuals and perennials for the garden.
Older son and two of his friends cleared the weeds last week and it looked so bare.
It will soon be bursting with color!
Planted: Marigolds - big ones (yellow and sweet cream) and smaller one in disco (a multi-orange); begonias - one pink, one red; Astra Blue Balloon flowers; and Astra Osteospermum in yellow and sunset purple.
These lovely plants will join the irises and daisies and cone flowers and whatever else pops up from last year! :)
And - last but not least - I'm knitting myself a gift. I'm participating in a CPaAG C/KAL. Everyone is doing some version of the Baktus (link to Ravelry search results for Baktus) I am doing the Lacy Baktus (my project page on Ravelry; you can click that link and see the project page, even if you don't belong to Ravelry!)
Last, but not least - we are seeing the end of the treatment tunnel for Mom's cancer. Last infusion should be June 7th. There have been and will be more doctors for other issues as the cancer treatments wind down. Important for overall health. She had her six month mammogram and it was all clear. She'll have another next Fall. If that one is clear, she'll be back on the yearly mammo plan
She fell twice in March and fractured her L1 vertebrae. We are looking into Vertebroplasty. The compression fracture is significant (50-60% and a backward tilt). Doctor says she's a candidate and it is more indicated than not for this fracture at this level and severity. We decide tomorrow. If it's a go, we'll be heading to Annapolis on Friday -- getting out of the house before 5:30 AM for a 7:30 or 8:00 AM out-patient surgery.
I think that's enough for now! :) Hope to see you sooner rather than later next time!
Friday, March 19, 2010
Spring is sproinging!
This winter has been pretty intense. Our area has had record setting snow falls and low temperatures. As we've been moving out of the winter weather, we've had rain and fog and cooler temps, with occasional warm bursts.
This weekend, Spring is upon us and she brings the SPRING WEATHER! Yippee! I'll be able to go out and clean up debris that has been covered in snow and wet for too long. I'll be able to till the garden area and cut back the snow-broken branches and get ready for the new season to take it's rightful place.
Let me catch you up on my doings for the past few weeks...
I finished my Olympic Sock event socks:
I took a knitting break and have been crocheting little hats for several causes. I completed and sent off four for preemies at a NICU hospital. I have finished three for full-term babies, with a few more days to go before I send them off. Here's a sample (I keep forgetting to take pictures of things before I mail them off so there are only two in the picture - but the pattern is essentially the same for all. The size and turned-up brim are all that change!):
Tomorrow is my Mother's 74th birthday. She celebrated by falling - again! Luckily, she is just bruised and stiff - no apparent breaks or tears. Last year, she celebrated birthday number 73 with a fractured tibia! I told her she should break this habit of falling for her birthday!
She was supposed to go for her 6th month mammogram check today. I've rescheduled for April 2nd. While there are no breaks or tears, sitting in the car for an hour each way AND having a diagnostic mammogram are things that would tax her system too much today.
We are also supposed to go to the club for a dinner event tomorrow night - 150 Club - dinner and a chance for mom to win $1500. Looks like that will be a no-go for a reason similar to the canceled Mammo - an hour ride each way. We're playing it by ear. Mom doesn't get out and socialize much. She hasn't had the desire for a while, but she was looking forward to this event.
Enjoy your Friday, my friends. Hope the weather treats you kindly on this first weekend of Spring!
This weekend, Spring is upon us and she brings the SPRING WEATHER! Yippee! I'll be able to go out and clean up debris that has been covered in snow and wet for too long. I'll be able to till the garden area and cut back the snow-broken branches and get ready for the new season to take it's rightful place.
Let me catch you up on my doings for the past few weeks...
I finished my Olympic Sock event socks:
I took a knitting break and have been crocheting little hats for several causes. I completed and sent off four for preemies at a NICU hospital. I have finished three for full-term babies, with a few more days to go before I send them off. Here's a sample (I keep forgetting to take pictures of things before I mail them off so there are only two in the picture - but the pattern is essentially the same for all. The size and turned-up brim are all that change!):
Tomorrow is my Mother's 74th birthday. She celebrated by falling - again! Luckily, she is just bruised and stiff - no apparent breaks or tears. Last year, she celebrated birthday number 73 with a fractured tibia! I told her she should break this habit of falling for her birthday!
She was supposed to go for her 6th month mammogram check today. I've rescheduled for April 2nd. While there are no breaks or tears, sitting in the car for an hour each way AND having a diagnostic mammogram are things that would tax her system too much today.
We are also supposed to go to the club for a dinner event tomorrow night - 150 Club - dinner and a chance for mom to win $1500. Looks like that will be a no-go for a reason similar to the canceled Mammo - an hour ride each way. We're playing it by ear. Mom doesn't get out and socialize much. She hasn't had the desire for a while, but she was looking forward to this event.
Enjoy your Friday, my friends. Hope the weather treats you kindly on this first weekend of Spring!
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